The Deconstruction of X-Scapes at ESU

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

The mesmeric effects of abstract art filled the senses of those who entered The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) of PA's Madelon Powers Gallery on Thursday February 2^nd. The mind and senses were immediately captivated by the stunning work created by Susan Molina Washington and Stephen Washington whose X-Scapes: Deconstructing the Urban and Pastoral Landscape Exhibition populated the walls of the gallery. A large number of art lovers from the University's surrounding community dwelled among the pieces to explore their conceptual intricacies.

Although the abstract nature of the work served as a connecting thread throughout the exhibit, a distinctive approach between the two artists to their creations could not be more stark in contrast. Ms. Washington's cubistically drawn patterns reflects the artist's affinity to fashion allowing its association to the urban landscape to adorn the imagination. The imagination of the Reception's attendees were also touched by the colors and impressionistic aspects of Mr. Washington's abstract pieces as seemingly random brush strokes and drippings reflected the wild, untamed beauty found in the natural world which we often yearn to rediscover within ourselves. The loving flow found throughout the exhibit unified the pieces just as two individuals become as one when they dedicate living and building a life with one another. This unity created a kinship between the entirety of the exhibition and those among the attendees who found its wonderments within themselves.

It was during the Artists' Reception did Mr. Washington share his unique insights into the work and the process from which it was made through a gallery talk. He also spoke on his wife's, Susan Molina Washington, images sharing their profound essence with the deeply attentive gathering. His talk gave a deeper understanding and appreciation of the aesthetic nature of not only the work but the artists themselves. This, in turn, allowed each individual who heard his words to lovingly recognize such elements within oneself. You'll find more photographs taken during the Artist's Reception in The Deconstruction of X-Scapes at ESU Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155780640923761.1073742051.91146283760&type=3.

Susan Molina Washington is from New York, NY who spent her teens deconstructing dressmaking as a punk fashionista and while later working in the NYC fashion industry for 15 years. Ms. Washington comes from a family of artists from which she was tutored in the art of origami and sumi ink drawing by her Japanese Godmother. Her work has been exhibited internationally. She currently lives and works in the Poconos Region of NEPA while sharing a studio space with her husband, Stephen. You can learn more about Susan Molina Washington by exploring her Website at www.susanwashingtonfineart.com.

Stephen Washington is from the United Kingdom who was trained as a painter at The Southport College of Art and Hull College of Art. He then worked as a graphic designer and commercial photographer between 1982 and 1999 before relocating to the United States. Mr. Washington now paints local landscapes in oils and creates large photographic abstractions. He currently lives and works in the Poconos Region of NEPA while sharing a studio space with his wife, Susan. You can learn more about Stephen Washington by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/stephenwashingtonfineart.

The X-Scapes: Deconstructing the Urban and Pastoral Landscape Exhibition featuring the Works of Susan Molina Washington and Stephen Washington will continue to be on display in The Madelon Powers Gallery which is located within the campus' Fine and Performing Arts Center until March 10^th. The next exhibition scheduled to take place in the gallery will be their Student Association All University Student Art Exhibit with an Artists' Reception scheduled to be held on Thursday March 23^rd beginning at 4pm featuring an award ceremony. The exhibit will continue to be on display in The Madelon Powers Gallery until April 7^th. Please explore The Madelon Powers Gallery Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/EsuArtGallery for more information.